Rate dependent systems for footwear

ABSTRACT

A rate dependent tether for securing a shoe to a user, and footwear incorporating the rate dependent tether. The rate dependent tether may include a tube filled with a shear-thickening material and at least one cable or ribbon. In conditions of normal, low, or no intense activity by the user, the rate dependent tether&#39;s deformation resistance is low allowing the rate dependent tether to be extended to allow insertion or removal of the foot. At active levels, for example, participating in sporting events or intense activities, the rate dependent tether&#39;s deformation resistance is high preventing the rate dependent tether from loosening and securing the shoe on the user. The rate dependent tether may be connected to a saddle. A rate dependent insole for footwear, a support impregnated with a shear-thickening fluid, a rate dependent footcone, and rate dependent bands are also described.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/522,458, filed Jun. 20, 2017, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/522,464, filed Jun. 20, 2017, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/522,466, filed Jun. 20, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/522,469, filed Jun. 20, 2017, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present application relates generally to shoes employing rate dependent systems. More specifically, the present application relates to rate dependent closing systems, insoles, and supports.

BACKGROUND

Currently, shoes and other footwear are typically secured to a user's foot with conventional shoelaces. The shoelaces may become loose or untied during high intensity activities, such as sports or exercise. Users may remedy this by tying the shoelaces tighter, however this may be uncomfortable to the user and may still result in loose or untied shoelaces during activity. Thus, a need exists for a dynamic system which may allow for the shoe to be loose when a user inserts a foot, but is secured during high intensity activities. A need also exists for added support and comfort of shoes and other footwear.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, a shoe may include a rate dependent tether comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the rate dependent tether includes a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear, and wherein the first end of the rate dependent tether is attached to the shoe, and the second end of the rate dependent tether is attached to the shoe or a closing device configured to connect the second end of the rate dependent tether to the shoe.

According to an embodiment, a shoe may include a rate dependent tether comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the rate dependent tether includes a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear; and a saddle connected to the first end of the rate dependent tether; wherein the second end of the rate dependent tether is connected to at least one of the saddle, the shoe, a shoelace, or a shoe closing system.

According to an embodiment, a rate dependent insole for a shoe may include an upper insole layer; a lower insole layer; and a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear located between the upper insole layer and the lower insole layer.

According to an embodiment, a support for supporting a body part may include a base material for constructing the support; a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear; wherein the base material is impregnated with the material.

According to an embodiment, a shoe may include a rate dependent footcone comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the rate dependent tether includes a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear, wherein the first end includes one or more connections for connecting to a shoelace.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following drawings, wherein like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements.

FIGS. 1A-1C are schematics of a rate dependent tether, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a lateral view of a rate dependent tether employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2B is a medial view of the shoe of FIG. 2A with a rate dependent tether.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the shoe of FIG. 2A with a rate dependent tether.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the shoe of FIG. 2A with a rate dependent tether.

FIG. 5A is a side view of a rate dependent tether employed in a shoe with shoelaces, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5B is a view of a connector employed in a shoe, according to the embodiment of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a side view of a rate dependent tether employed in a shoe with a BOA lace system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 6B is a view of a connector employed in a shoe, according to the embodiment of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a side view of a rate dependent tether employed in a shoe with a quick release system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 7B is a side view of a rate dependent tether employed in a shoe with a quick release system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8A is a lateral view of a rate dependent tether with forefoot saddle employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 8B is a medial view of the shoe of FIG. 8A with a rate dependent tether with forefoot saddle.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the shoe of FIG. 8A with a rate dependent tether with a forefoot saddle.

FIG. 10 is a front view of the shoe of FIG. 8A with a rate dependent tether with a forefoot saddle.

FIG. 11A is a lateral view of a rate dependent insole employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11B is a medial view of the shoe of FIG. 11A with a rate dependent insole.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the shoe of FIG. 11A with a rate dependent insole employed in a shoe.

FIG. 13 is a front view of the shoe of FIG. 11A with a rate dependent insole.

FIG. 14 is a lateral view of an ankle support with shear-thickening material, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a rate dependent footcone employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a partial top view of a rate dependent band employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a side view of a rate dependent band employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a side view of a rate dependent band employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a side view of rate dependent bands employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20A is a side view of rate dependent bands employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 20B is a bottom view of the shoe of FIG. 20A with rate dependent bands.

FIG. 21A is a side view of a rate dependent bands employed in a shoe, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 21B is a bottom view of the shoe of FIG. 21A with rate dependent bands.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention are discussed in detail below. In describing embodiments, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other equivalent parts can be employed and other methods developed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. All references cited herein are incorporated by reference as if each had been individually incorporated.

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, a rate dependent tether 10 can be seen. Examples of rate dependent tethers that can be used with the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,303,717 to Wetzel et al. and U.S. application Ser. No. 15/057,944 to Wetzel et al., herein incorporated by reference. Additional examples of rate dependent tethers that can be used with the present invention may also be found in the publication “Design and properties of a rate-dependent ‘dynamic ligament’ containing shear-thickening fluid” by Nenno et al., herein incorporated by reference.

FIG. 1A depicts the rate dependent tether 10 in an initial state, where no shear forces are exerted on the tether. The rate dependent tether 10 may include a housing 12 with closed ends 14. The housing 12 may be a tube, cylinder, or other elongated, hollow housing. The housing 12 may be elastomeric. In one example, the housing 12 is an elastomeric tube. Each of the closed ends 14 may be closed with a barbed plug 16. Each barbed plug 16 may seal the closed ends 14 such that no fluid or material is permitted to flow or move between an interior 18 of the housing 12 and an exterior of the housing 12. Alternatively, the closed ends 14 of the housing 12 may be closed with any known structure for sealing in the material of the housing 12. Within the housing 12 or elastomeric tube may be a shear-thickening material 20 and one or more cables or ribbons 22. The ribbons 22 may be attached to the closed ends 14 or barbed plugs 16. Although two ribbons 22 are depicted, more or fewer may be provided. The housing 12 or elastomeric tube may comprise the shear-thickening material 20 with the housing 12. The closed ends 14 and/or barbed plugs 16 may seal the shear-thickening material 20 within the housing 12. The shear-thickening material 20 may be at least one of a shear-thickening fluid, a non-Newtonian fluid, a dilatant, or any material which increases in viscosity with a rate of shear.

FIG. 1B depicts the rate dependent tether 10 experiencing slow deformations in the direction of arrows 24. The arrows 24 may represent low forces applied to the rate dependent tether 10. As the housing 12 moves in the direction of arrows 24, the ribbons 22, being attached to the closed ends 14 at barbed plugs 16, also move in the direction of arrows 24. The shear rates created by the moving housing 12 and the ribbons 22 sliding past each other may be below the critical shear rate of the shear-thickening material 20. This may result in the shear-thickening material 20 exhibiting low viscosity and the extensional resistance of the rate dependent tether 10 being relatively low.

FIG. 1C depicts the rate dependent tether 10 experiencing fast deformations in the direction of arrows 26. The arrows 26 may represent high forces applied to the rate dependent tether 10. The shear rates created by the moving housing 12 and the ribbons 22 sliding past each other may exceed the critical shear rate of the enclosed shear-thickening material 20. This may result in the shear-thickening material 20 having high viscosity or being in a solid like state. This may create high shear stresses that drastically increase the extensional resistance of the rate dependent tether 10.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show lateral side views of a shoe 30 employing one or more tethers 32. The one or more tethers 32 may be one or more rate dependent tethers 10. The one or more tethers 32 may couple to the shoe 30 at a connection 34 of the shoe 30. The tethers 32 may be provided with the shoe 30. Alternatively, the tethers 32 may be provided separately to replace existing shoelaces, such as conventional tie shoelaces or no-tie shoelaces. FIGS. 2A and 2B depict four tethers 32 in the shoe, although more or fewer tethers 32 may be employed in the shoe 30. One or more of the tethers 32 may include rate dependent tethers 10 or may be replaced by rate dependent tethers 10. For example, all of the tethers 32 in the shoe 30 may be rate dependent tethers 10. Alternatively, the tethers 32 may be a combination of conventional shoelaces and rate dependent tethers 10. Additionally, rate dependent tethers 10 may be placed strategically in regions of the shoe 30 that experience the most shear stresses. For example, the rate dependent tethers 10 may be placed in the midfoot lacing zone 36, forefoot lacing zone 38, and/or upper lacing zone 40. The location of the rate dependent tethers 10 may be selected based on the desired fit and function of the shoe 30 for the user.

FIGS. 3 and 4 depict the tethers 32 of the shoe 30 wrapping over the top of the shoe from a medial side 42 to a lateral side 44. The tethers 32 may be attached to the shoe 30 through existing eyelets. The tethers 32 may be attached to the shoe 30 and/or the connections 34 with, for example, an eyelet, an anchor, a hollow portion, or a hook. One end of the tether 32 may include a hollow portion and the opposing end of the tether 32 may include an anchor portion. In this manner, the one end of the tether 32 may be threaded through a connection 34 (e.g. an eyelet) on both the lateral side 44 and the medial side 42 of the shoe 30. Once through, the anchor may be brought to connect with the hollow portion, thus connecting the tether 32 together.

Alternatively, the hollow portion may connect to an anchor portion located on a medial side 42 or lateral side 44 of the shoe 30 while the anchor portion connects to the other of the medial side 42 and lateral side 44 of the shoe. Alternatively, both ends of the tether 32 may employ hollow portions. The hollow portions may then be attached to anchor portions on the lateral side 44 and medial side 42 of the shoe 30. Alternatively, both ends of the tether 32 may employ anchor portions. The anchor portions may then be attached to hollow portions on the lateral side 44 and medial side 42 of the shoe 30. Alternatively, the tether 32 may be constructed integrally with the shoe 30, for example, opposing ends of each tether 32 may be sewn or bonded to the shoe 30, e.g., the shoe upper, midsole, or sole. Other embodiments of attaching the tethers 32 to the shoe 30 are also possible. For example, the tether 32 may be connected to a saddle, a shoe, a shoelace, a quick release system of FIG. 7A or 7B, or other shoe closing system.

Referring to FIG. 4, one or more of the tethers 32 may, for example, be rate dependent tethers 10. Under normal conditions, for example, no intense activity by the user, the deformation resistance of the rate dependent tethers 10 is low. This may allow the rate dependent tether 10 to be extended to allow insertion or removal of the foot from the shoe 30. However, at active levels, for example, where movement is exhibited in the direction of arrows 46, the deformation resistance of the rate dependent tether 10 is high compared to the normal condition. Active levels may be experienced, for example, participating in sporting events or intense activities. The high resistance of the rate dependent tether 10 prevents the rate dependent tether 10 from loosening and instead the tethers 32 hold the shoe 30 onto the user.

FIG. 5A depicts a shoe 50 which may employ both one or more shoelaces 52 and one or more tethers 54, such as the rate dependent tethers 10 of FIGS. 1A-1C. The same number of tethers 54 may be provided on the opposing side of the shoe (not visible). Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, on a first end 56 of the tether 54, there may be a connection 58. The connection 58 may be a hollow portion or an anchor portion which may connect to an anchor portion or a hollow portion, respectively, located on the shoe 50. Alternatively, the connection 58 may be a permanent connection, such that the tether 54 is fixedly or permanently connected to the shoe 50. On a second, opposing end 60 of the tether 54, there may be a connection 62. The connection 62 may be an eyelet as depicted in FIG. 5B. A shoelace 52 may be threaded through the eyelets of the tethers 54 in the same or similar manner as one would traditionally lace a shoe.

FIG. 6A depicts a shoe 70 which may employ both a wire and crank closure system 72 and one or more tethers 74, such as the rate dependent tethers 10 of FIGS. 1A-1C. The wire and crank closure system 72 may be a BOA® system or Nike® Flywire technology. The same number of tethers 74 may be provided on the opposing side of the shoe (not visible). Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, on a first end 76 of the tether 74, there may be a connection 78. The connection 78 may be a hollow portion or an anchor portion which may connect to an anchor portion or a hollow portion, respectively, located on the shoe 70. Alternatively, the connection 78 may be a permanent connection, such that the tether 74 is fixedly or permanently connected to the shoe 70. On a second, opposing end 80 of the tether 74, there may be an eyelet as depicted in FIG. 6B. A shoelace 82 for a wire and crank closure system 72 may be threaded through the eyelets of the tethers 74 in the same or similar manner as one would traditionally use a wire and crank closure system 72, such as the BOA® system or Nike® Flywire technology.

Alternatively, in either FIGS. 5A-5B or FIGS. 6A-6B, the tethers 54, 74, may be constructed integrally with the shoe 50, 70, respectively, or the tethers 54, 74 may be sewn or bonded to the shoe 50, 70, respectively. In place of the eyelet at the end 60, 80, the tether 54, 74, respectively, may alternatively be provided with any known connection for lacing a shoe.

Although three tethers 54, 74 are depicted in FIGS. 5A-5B and 6A-6B, more or fewer tethers 54, 74 may be employed on each side of the shoe 50, 70, respectively. One or more of the tethers 54, 74 may include rate dependent tethers 10. For example, all of the tethers 54, 74 in the shoe 50, 70 may be rate dependent tethers 10. Additionally, tethers 54, 74 and rate dependent tethers 10 may be placed strategically in regions of the shoe that experience the most shear stresses. For example, the tethers 54, 74 may be placed in the midfoot, forefoot, and/or upper lacing zone, as described with respect to FIG. 2A. A shoelace 52, 82 may be threaded through eyelets in the shoe (in locations where tethers 54, 74 are omitted) and through eyelets in the tethers 54, 74 (in locations where tethers 54/74 are included).

FIG. 7A depicts a shoe 90 including tethers 92 which may further include a quick release system 94. The quick release system 94 may be a magnetic closure or other quick releasing connection that allows the user to quickly release one or more of the tethers 92 from the shoe 90. For example, the quick release system 94 may include a latch, knob, or buckle. The tethers 92 may be any of the tethers 10, 32, 54, 74 described herein. FIG. 7B depicts a shoe 100 including tethers 102 which may further include a quick release system 104. The quick release system 104 may be a magnetic closure or other quick releasing connection that allows the user to quickly release one or more of the tethers 102 from the shoe 100. For example, the quick release system 104 may include a latch, knob, or buckle. The tethers 102 may be any of the tethers 10, 32, 54, 74 described herein.

FIGS. 8A and 8B show lateral side views of a shoe 110 employing one or more tethers 112 in combination with a saddle 116. The one or more tethers 112 may be one or more rate dependent tethers 10. The one or more tethers 112 may extend through a lower portion 111 of the shoe 110 at an opening 114 of the shoe 110. Respective openings 114 may be provided on the lateral side 120 and the medial side 122. The tethers 112 may be provided with the shoe 110 or they may be provided separately to replace existing shoelaces, such as conventional tie shoelaces or no-tie shoelaces. FIGS. 8A and 8B depict three tethers 112 on each of the later side 120 and the medial side 122 of the shoe 110, although more or fewer tethers 112 may be employed in the shoe 110. One or more of the tethers 112 may include rate dependent tethers 10 or may be replaced by rate dependent tethers 10. For example, all of the tethers 112 in the shoe 110 may be rate dependent tethers 10. Additionally, rate dependent tethers 10 may be placed strategically in regions of the shoe 110 that experience the most shear stresses. For example, the rate dependent tethers may be placed in the midfoot, forefoot, and/or upper lacing zone as described with respect to FIG. 2B.

With continued reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the shoe 110 may also include a saddle 116 connected to the tethers 112. The saddle 116 may be a forefront saddle. Although the saddle 116 is depicted centered in the forefoot region of the shoe 110, the saddle 116 may be offset toward the toe 117, tongue, 118, lateral side 120, or medial side 122 of the shoe 110, or combinations thereof. The position of the saddle 116 may be chosen to provide stability to the user during activity. The saddle 116 may provide support and stability to an area of the shoe 110 where it is located. The saddle 116 may move as the tethers 112 extend and contract during use, as described with respect to FIGS. 1A-1C.

Although a single saddle 116 is depicted, any number of saddles 116 may be employed in the shoe 110. The saddles 116 may be placed in any region that may require the stability provided by the saddle 116. For example, a saddle 116 may be provided on each of the lateral side 120 and the medial side 122. Alternatively, a saddle 116 may be provided on each of a forefoot area and a heel area. A saddle 116 may be provided on each of the lateral side 120, the medial side 122, the forefoot area, and the heel area. Any number of combinations of quantity and location of saddles 116 and tethers 112 may be employed in the shoe 110.

FIGS. 9 and 10 depict an exemplary manner to connect the tethers 112 of shoe 110 to the saddle 116. A first tether 112 a may connect to the saddle 116 on the lateral side 120 of the shoe 110 at a first end 124 of the first tether 112 a. The first tether 112 a may then pass through an opening 114 to the midsole construction 126 (i.e. under the user's foot) and exit another opening 114 on the opposing side of the midsole construction 126. A second, opposing end 128 of the tether 112 may be connected to the saddle 116 on the medial side 122 of the shoe 110. A second tether 112 b and third tether 112 c may be connected in the same manner. Alternatively, a tether 112 may be connected between the saddle 116 and a location in the sole on the medial side 122. A separate tether 112 may be connected in the same manner in a corresponding location on the lateral side 120. That is, the first tether 112 a may comprise two separate tethers 112 coupled between a respective part of the shoe 110 and the saddle 116. According to an embodiment, separate tethers 112 may be provided on the opposing lateral side 120 and medial side 122 of the shoe 110, and joined by a strap, band, or web extending between the shoe upper and the midsole. See, for example, FIG. 3. Alternatively, a single tether 112 can extend on both the lateral side 120 and the medial side 122 of the shoe 110, and can extend between the shoe upper and the midsole.

The tethers 112 may each be attached to the saddle 116 through an opening or hollow portion 130 on the saddle 116. The tether 112 may include an anchor portion on each of the first end 124 and the second end 128 of the tether 112. The anchor on the second end 128 of the tether 112 may be inserted into the hollow portion 130 on the saddle 116 to connect the tether 112 on the medial side 122 of the shoe 110 to the saddle 116 Similarly, on the lateral side 120, the anchor on the first end 124 of the tether 112 may be inserted in to the hollow portion 130 on the saddle 116 to connect the tether 112 to the saddle 116.

Alternatively, the hollow portion may be located on the tether 112 with the anchor located on the saddle 116. Additionally, one end (either the first end 124 or the second end 128) of the tether 112 may have an anchor and the opposing end (the other of the first end 124 or the second end 128) may have a hollow portion. The anchor portion of the tether 112 may connect to a hollow portion on the saddle 116. The opposing end with the hollow portion may connect to an anchor on the saddle 116. Alternatively, the tether 112 may be constructed integrally with the saddle 116. The tether 112 may be connected to the saddle 116, shoe 110, a shoelace (not depicted), the quick release system of FIG. 7A or 7B, or other shoe closing system. Other embodiments of attaching the rate dependent tethers to the saddle and/or shoe are also possible.

Referring to FIG. 10, one or more of the tethers 112 may, for example, by rate dependent tethers 10. Under normal conditions, for example, no intense activity by the user, the deformation resistance of the rate dependent tethers 10 is low. This may allow the rate dependent tether 10 to be extended to allow insertion or removal of the foot from the shoe 110. However, at active levels, for example, where movement is exhibited in the direction of arrows 132, the deformation resistance of the rate dependent tether 10 is high compared to the normal condition. Active levels may be experienced, for example, participating in sporting events or intense activities. The high resistance of the rate dependent tether 10 prevents the rate dependent tether 10 from loosening and instead the rate dependent tethers 10 hold the shoe 110 onto the user. The saddle 116 provides stability during activity. The combination of the rate dependent tether 10 and the saddle 116 works to retain the foot within the shoe 110 while providing active support during shear strain caused by lateral cutting and directional change (e.g. movement in the direction of arrows 132).

Examples of fastening devices which may be employed with the tethers described herein may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 8,850,675 to Frydlewski et al., herein incorporated by reference. Although described separately, any of the various combinations of rate dependent systems may be combined.

Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B, lateral side views of a shoe 140 employing a rate dependent insole 142 are shown. The rate dependent insole 142 may be provided integrally with the shoe 140. The integral rate dependent insole 142 may be constructed by adhering two layers of the shoe insole together around a shear-thickening material. Alternatively, the rate dependent insole 142 may be provided independent of the shoe 140. The independent rate dependent insole 142 may be retrofit into the shoe 140. The independent rate dependent insole 142 may be attached to the shoe 140 through known techniques, such as adhesive or sewn connections.

As depicted in FIGS. 11A-11B and FIGS. 12 and 13, the rate dependent insole 142 may be located internally in place of or to replace a traditional insole of the shoe 140. The rate dependent insole 142 may be located in addition to a traditional insole, on top of or beneath the traditional insole. The rate dependent insole 142 may be constructed of a sealed housing 144 which comprises a shear-thickening material 146 within the housing 144. The housing 144 may be constructed of a top layer 144 a and bottom layer 144 b of an insole which are bonded together by an adhesive or other known bonding technique. The shear-thickening material 146 may be housed or located in between the top layer 144 a and bottom layer 144 b of the insole. The shear-thickening material 146 may be a shear-thickening fluid, a non-Newtonian fluid, a dilatant, or any fluid which increases in viscosity with a rate of shear.

The rate dependent insole 142 may include at least one ribbon (not depicted) within the shear-thickening material 146. The at least one ribbon may be as described in FIGS. 1A-1C. The at least one ribbon may activate the shear-thickening material 146 to provide support to a user's foot placed within the shoe 140.

Although a single rate dependent insole 142 is depicted, more than one rate dependent insole 142 may be used in the shoe 140. The rate dependent insole 142 may be placed strategically in regions of the shoe 140 that experience the most shear stresses. For example, the rate dependent insole 142 may be placed in the midfoot or heel area. The rate dependent insole 142 may be offset to the lateral side 148 or the medial side 150 of the shoe 140.

FIG. 12 depicts a perspective view of a rate dependent insole 142 employed in the shoe 140. The rate dependent insole 142 may wrap 180 degrees under the foot of a user. Alternatively, the rate dependent insole 142 may wrap more or less than 180 degrees under the foot of the user. The rate dependent insole 142 may provide dynamic support when activated by lateral and linear direction change or motion in the direction of arrows 152, 154 (FIG. 13).

Referring to FIG. 13, and as described with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, under normal conditions, for example, no intense activity by the user, the deformation resistance of the rate dependent insole 142 is low. However, at active levels, for example, where movement is exhibited in the direction of arrows 152, 154, the deformation resistance of the rate dependent insole 142 may be high compared to the normal condition. Active levels may be experienced, for example, when the foot turns, such as when participating in sporting events or intense activities. At active levels, the shear-thickening material is activated resulting in high deformation resistance of the rate dependent insole 142. This high resistance provides support and stability to the user's foot within the shoe 140.

The rate dependent insole 142 may be customized to the user and/or activity. That is, for a user who experiences a lot of strain on the lateral side 148, the rate dependent insole 142 may be designed such as to provide maximized support in that area during intense activities. Alternatively, for a user who experiences a lot of strain on the medial side 150, the rate dependent insole 142 may be designed such as to provide maximized support in that area during intense activities. Similarly, this may be applied to different areas of the foot, such as, for example, the ankle, heel, arch, etc.

FIG. 14 depicts a support 160 employing a shear-thickening material 162 operating in the manner described with relation to FIGS. 1A-1C. The support 160 may be an ankle support. The support 160 may be constructed of a material impregnated with the shear-thickening material 162. The material may be a woven fabric, a stretchable fabric, or an elastic bandage fabric. Any or all of the materials used to construct the support may be impregnated with a shear-thickening material 162 or other material or fluid which increases in viscosity based on a rate of shear. The impregnated support 160 may be encapsulated in a sleeve of material to retain the shear-thickening material 162 in contact with the area to support.

The support 160 may be incorporated directly in an article of footwear 164, or alternatively, be provided as an accessory to be worn by a user prior to donning the footwear 164. An exemplary support 160 which may be worn prior to donning footwear 164 may be seen in FIG. 14. Additional exemplary supports 160 may be constructed as sleeves, for example, for wearing under the footwear 164. Exemplary supports 160 that may be incorporated directly into the article of footwear 164 may include portions of material impregnated with the shear-thickening material 162 which are attached directly to the footwear 164 and are then wrapped around the foot, ankle, and/or calf to provide support thereof. Examples include Vibram® Furoshiki shoes or Nike® Huarache Shoes. Alternatively, the material impregnated with the shear-thickening material 162 may be constructed as a sleeve which may be integrally formed with the footwear 164. In this manner, a user may slip a foot into the sleeve and then directly into the footwear 164.

The shear-thickening material impregnated support 160 may experience low shear stresses in non-use, normal condition, as described with reference to the previously described systems. This may allow the user to wrap the desired body part, for example, the ankle. Alternatively, this may allow the user to easily don a shoe comprising a shear-thickening material. The user may experience little to no resistance when beginning to wrap the ankle, or when donning the shoe. As the user stretches the support 160 to continue wrapping the ankle, the shear-thickening material may be activated. The activation of the shear-thickening material 162 may allow the support 160 to stiffen, thus providing stability and support to the body part, such as the ankle.

The shear-thickening material 162 may be chosen based on its critical rate of shear. The shear-thickening material 162 may be chosen to provide more or less stability as necessary for the particular user and/or activity. The shear-thickening material 162 may be chosen to activate after a small amount of stretching of the support 160, thus providing a stiff support. Alternatively, the shear-thickening material 162 may be chosen to activate after longer stretching of the support 160, thus providing a less stiff support 160 than the previously described support.

The support 160 may provide stability and support for users during activities or during injury. The high resistance experienced by the shear-thickening material 162 once it is stretched may prevent the support 160 from loosening and instead hold the support 160 onto the user, stabilizing the wrapped body part. Additionally or alternatively, the support 160 may provide low resistance to slow and/or small movements, providing high range of motion, while also providing high resistance to abrupt and/or large movements, providing sufficient support and injury prevention.

Referring to FIG. 15, a perspective view of a shoe 180 with a footcone 182 is depicted. The footcone 182 may include a housing 184 with a shear-thickening material 186 located therein. The footcone 182 may be a sheet. The footcone 182 may be flexible such that it may conform or curve to the shape of the shoe 180 or a user's foot. The footcone 182 may include one or more connections 188 on a first side 189 of the footcone 182. The connections 188 may be eyelets. A shoelace 190 may be threaded through the connections 188 and eyelets 192 on the shoe 180 in a conventional manner. The footcone 182 may be integrally formed with the shoe 180 on a second side 194 of the footcone 182. Alternatively, the second side 194 may include similar connections 188 for coupling the footcone 182 to the shoe 180 with a second shoelace 190. Thus, the footcone 182 may be included or omitted from the shoe 180 as desired by the user. Additionally, this may allow the footcone 182 to be moved upward or downward along a long axis of the shoe and/or moved laterally along a short axis of the shoe. The connections 188 may be anchors, hollow portions, or eyelets.

The footcone 182 may be constructed the same as the rate dependent tether 10 of FIGS. 1A-1C, except that the footcone 182 is constructed as a sheet. The footcone 182 may be wider than the rate dependent tether 10. The footcone 182 may include one or more ribbons (not visible) located within the shear-thickening fluid 186 as described with respect to FIGS. 1A-1C. The one or more ribbons may be aligned with a vertical axis 196 of the footcone 182, a horizontal axis 198 of the footcone 182, diagonally between opposing corners of the housing 184, randomly within the housing 184, or any combination thereof. Alternatively, the ribbons may be omitted and the footcone 182 may operate based only on the changes in the shear-thickening material 186. The shear-thickening material 186 may be at least one of a shear-thickening fluid, a non-Newtonian fluid, a dilatant, or any material which increases in viscosity with a rate of shear. The footcone 182 may provide support to the shoe 180 and/or user in the same manner as the previously described with respect to previous embodiments. The shoelaces 190 may be conventional tie shoelaces, no-tie shoelaces, or a wire of a wire and crank closure system.

Referring to FIG. 16, a perspective view of a shoe 200 with a band 202 at a forefront of the shoe 200 is depicted. The band 202 may include a housing 204 with a shear-thickening material 206 located therein. The band 202 may be flexible such that it may conform or curve to the shape of the shoe 200 or a user's foot. The band 202 may include one or more connections 208 on opposing sides of the band 202. The connections 208 may be anchors, hollow portions, or eyelets. The connections 208 may be permanent connections, such as sewn or adhered connections. The connections 208 may be coupled to one or more flaps 210 on the shoe 200. The flaps 210 may be integrally formed with the shoe 200 or releasably coupled to the shoe 200. The band 202 may be used in combination with conventional shoelaces 212. The band 202 may be integrally formed with the shoe 200. The band 202 and/or the flaps 210 may be releasably coupled to the shoe 200 such that the band 202 may be included or omitted from the shoe 200 as desired by the user. Additionally, this may allow the band 202 to be moved upward or downward along a long axis of the shoe 200 and/or moved laterally along a short axis of the shoe 200.

The band 202 may be constructed the same as the rate dependent tether 10 of FIGS. 1A-1C, except that the band 202 may be wider than the rate dependent tether 10. Thus, the band 202 may include one or more ribbons (not visible) located within the shear-thickening fluid 206 as described with respect to FIGS. 1A-1C. The one or more ribbons may be aligned with a long axis of the band 202, a short axis of the band 202, diagonally between opposing corners of the housing 204, randomly within the housing 204, or any combination thereof. The shear-thickening material 206 may be at least one of a shear-thickening fluid, a non-Newtonian fluid, a dilatant, or any material which increases in viscosity with a rate of shear. The band 202 may provide support to the shoe 200 and/or user in the same manner as the previously described with respect to previous embodiments. That is, when stretched, the band 202 may provide added support to the shoe 200 and/or user. The shoelaces 212 may be conventional tie shoelaces, no-tie shoelaces, or a wire of a wire and crank closure system. The band 202 may replace a conventional forefront strap. The band 202 may thus reduce the bulk associated with D-rings on conventional forefront straps and may add support when stretched.

Referring to FIG. 17, a shoe 220 is depicted with one or more tethers 222 in a heel area of the shoe 220. The tethers 222 may be coupled to the shoe 220 at opposing ends 224. The opposing ends 224 may include any of the connections (e.g. eyelet, anchor, hollow portion) described herein and combinations thereof. Although not visible, a corresponding tether 222 may be provided on the opposing side of the shoe 220. Alternatively more tethers 222 may be provided on each side the shoe 220. Referring to FIG. 18, a shoe 230 may be provided with a tether 232 around a heel portion of the shoe 230. When the tethers 222, 232 are stretched, the tethers 222, 232 may provide added support to the shoe 220, 230, rear foot area, and/or the heel of the user. The tethers 222, 232 may be any of the tethers described herein and/or the band 202. The tethers 222, 232 may couple to the shoe 220, 230, respectively, in any of the manners described herein. The tethers 222, 232 may create a hell retention system that adjusts to quick movements.

Referring to FIG. 19, a shoe 240 is depicted with one or more tethers 242. The one or more tethers 242 may be rate dependent tethers 10. The one or more tethers 242 may extend from a medial side 250 of the shoe 240 to a lateral side (not visible) of the shoe 240. The medial side 250 of the shoe 240 may include a strap 252 having one or more eyelets for use with a conventional shoe lace. The strap 252 may be integral, sewn, adhered, or removable coupled to the medial side 250 of the shoe 240. A corresponding strap may be provided on the lateral side (not visible) of the shoe 240. The one or more tethers 242 may extend between the two straps 252. The one or more tethers 242 may include connections 244 on opposing ends for coupling to the corresponding strap 252. The connections 244 may be eyelets, anchors, hollow portions, or combinations thereof, as previously described with respect to previous embodiments. The midsole construction 248 of the shoe 240 may include one or more apertures or grooves 246 extending from the medial side 250 to the lateral side. Each tether 242 may couple at connection 244 to the strap 252, extend through the groove 246 in the midsole construction 248, and exit the opposing side to couple at a second connection 244 to a second strap 252 (not visible). Thus, the tethers 242 may extend under the arch of a user's foot. The one or more tethers 242 may pull the shoe upper to the foot for greater comfort and custom fit. A standard closure system, e.g. conventional shoelaces, allow for accessibility. Each of the one or more tethers 242 may have the same resistance or each may have a different resistance, as will be described in more detail to follow. For example, the middle tether 242 may have a higher or lower resistance than the tether 242 on either side. This may allow a user-defined system to create the desired support and/or comfort for the user's foot.

Referring to FIGS. 20A and 20B, a shoe 260 is depicted with one or more tethers 262. The one or more tethers 262 may be the rate dependent tethers 10. The shoe 260 may include one or more connections 266 for coupling to a corresponding one of the one or more tethers 262. A first end 268 of a tethers 262 may couple to the connection 266 in one of the aforementioned manners, e.g. an anchor, a hollow portion, an eyelet, etc. The tether 262 may then extend through or be received by a corresponding groove 264 in a base or sole of the shoe 260 and couple to a connection 266 on the opposing side of the shoe 260 (not visible). The tethers 262 may provide a continuous band to join opposing sides of a footcone (FIG. 15) or saddle (FIG. 8A). Although three tethers 262 are depicted, more or fewer may be provided. The one or more tethers 262 may allow movement of the footcone or saddle to provide support to the shoe 260 and/or the user.

Referring to FIGS. 21A and 21B, a shoe 280 is depicted with one or more tethers 282. The one or more tethers 282 may be the rate dependent tethers 10. The shoe 280 may include a bore or connection 284 for extending a first tether 282 a through. The shoe 280 may include a second connection 284 (not visible) on the opposing side of the shoe for extending a second tether 282 b through. The shoe 280 may be provided with grooves 286 in a base or sole thereof for receiving the one or more tethers 282. For example, the first tether 282 a may have a connection 288 at opposing ends of the tether 282 a. One connection 288 may couple to a connection 290 provided on a bottom of the shoe 280 within a first groove 286 a. The first tether 282 a may couple to the first connection 290, extend through the first groove 286 a. The first tether 282 a may then extend through the connection 284 and into a second groove 286 b. The opposing end of the first tether 282 a may have a second connection 288 that may couple to a second connection 290 within the groove 286 b. The second tether 282 b may have a connection 288 at opposing ends of the tether 282 b. One connection 288 may couple to a connection 290 provided on a bottom of the shoe 280 within a third groove 286 c. The second tether 282 b may couple to the first connection 290, extend through the third groove 286 c. The second tether 282 b may then extend through a second connection 284 (not visible) and into a fourth groove 286 d. The opposing end of the second tether 282 b may have a second connection 288 that may couple to a second connection 290 within the groove 286 d. The connections 288 and 290 may be provided within the grooves 286 such that the connections do not interfere with the function of the shoe. The first tether 282 a and the second tether 282 b may secure a forefront strap to the shoe by encircling the foot. The forefront strap may be 202 of FIG. 16. Although two tethers 282 are depicted, more or fewer may be provided. The tethers 282 may allow movement of the forefront strap to provide support to the shoe 260 and/or the user.

Any of the tethers described herein, such as tethers 10, 32, 54, 74, 92, 102, 112, 222, 232, 242, 262, or 282 may be provided to a user in a plurality of resistances such that a user may select a particular resistance or combination of resistances to be used with the respective shoe. Referring back to FIG. 17, for example, each of tethers 222 a, 222 b, and 222 c may include a different shear-thickening material 226 a, 226 b, 226 c, respectively. The shear-thickening material 226 a may have a higher viscosity than the shear-thickening material 226 b and a lower viscosity than the shear-thickening material 226 c. Thus, the user may opt to use tether 222 a when a certain degree of support is desired, the tether 222 b when less support than the tether 222 a is desired, and the tether 222 c when more support than the tether 222 a is desired. In some embodiments, the user may opt to use the tether 222 a on one side of the shoe 220 and one of the tethers 222 b or 222 c on the opposing side of the shoe 220. In this manner, the user may select the desired level of support for the activity, the user's particular physical fitness, ability, or condition. Additionally, any of the aforementioned tethers may be removable and replaceable. In this manner, a user may remove and replace a tether if the tether becomes worn, breaks, or for a different desired resistance, etc.

The present invention relates to rate dependent tethers that may replace or complement conventional shoelaces. The rate dependent tethers may be incorporated directly into the shoe, or alternatively, provided as an aftermarket accessory to replace shoelaces. The rate dependent tethers may retain the shoe on the user when the tethers experience a shear strain, for example, during activities such as running, cycling, skiing, and participating in other sporting events (basketball, soccer, golf, volleyball, football, etc.). The rate dependent tethers therefore provide a dynamic, no-tie shoelace. The rate dependent tethers may be provided on a shoe having a forefoot saddle. Although the rate dependent tethers are described herein for use in a shoe, it is contemplated that the rate dependent tethers could be used in other sporting equipment and clothing.

The present invention also relates to rate dependent insoles that may be provided in a shoe. The rate dependent insoles may provide dynamic support when activated by lateral and linear direction changes. The rate dependent insoles may be activated when the insoles experience a shear strain, for example, during activities such as running, cycling, skiing, hiking, and participating in other sporting events (basketball, soccer, golf, volleyball, football, etc.). Although the rate dependent insoles are described herein for use in a shoe, it is contemplated that the rate dependent insoles could be used in other sporting equipment and clothing.

The present invention also relates to an ankle support having a shear-thickening material, such as a fluid, impregnated therein. The ankle support may provide 360 degree support to a user when the support experiences a shear strain, for example, during activities such as running, cycling, skiing, and participating in other sporting events (basketball, soccer, golf, volleyball, football, etc.). Although the support is described as being worn on an ankle, it is understood the support may be worn to support any body part, including a wrist, forearm, quadriceps, back, calf, knee, elbow, etc.

The present invention also relates to a footcone and band having a shear-thickening material, such as a fluid, located therein. The footcone and band may be provided on a shoe. The footcone and band may be activated when the footcone experiences a shear strain, for example, during activities such as running, cycling, skiing, hiking, and participating in other sporting events (basketball, soccer, golf, volleyball, football, etc.). Although the footcones and bands are described herein for use in a shoe, it is contemplated that the footcones could be used in other sporting equipment and clothing.

The embodiments illustrated and discussed in this specification are intended only to teach those skilled in the art the best way known to the inventors to make and use the invention. Nothing in this specification should be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention. All examples presented are representative and non-limiting. The above-described embodiments of the invention may be modified or varied, without departing from the invention, as appreciated by those skilled in the art in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the claims and their equivalents, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described. 

1. A shoe, comprising: a rate dependent tether comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the rate dependent tether includes a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear, and wherein the first end of the rate dependent tether is attached to the shoe, and the second end of the rate dependent tether is attached to the shoe or a closing device configured to connect the second end of the rate dependent tether to the shoe.
 2. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the rate dependent tether further comprises a housing, the housing comprising: at least one ribbon, and a shear-thickening material.
 3. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the rate dependent tether is configured to allow a user to insert a foot into the shoe, while the rate dependent tether exhibits low deformation resistance.
 4. The shoe of claim 3, wherein the rate dependent tether is configured to be activated by exposing the rate dependent tether to a shear stress above a critical shear rate of the material thereby increasing the deformation resistance exhibited by the rate dependent tether and securing the shoe to the foot of the user.
 5. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the rate dependent tether is configured to extend through a midsole construction of the shoe.
 6. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the rate dependent tether is at least one of a forefront band, a heel band, an under arch tether, an under arch band, an underfoot tether, and an underfoot band.
 7. The shoe of claim 6, wherein the rate dependent tether extends through a groove in at least one of a base and a sole of the shoe.
 8. A shoe, comprising: a rate dependent tether comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the rate dependent tether includes a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear; and a saddle connected to the first end of the rate dependent tether, wherein the second end of the rate dependent tether is connected to at least one of the saddle, the shoe, a shoelace, or a shoe closing system.
 9. The shoe of claim 8, wherein the rate dependent tether further comprises a housing, the housing comprising: at least one ribbon, and the material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear, wherein the material is a shear-thickening fluid.
 10. The shoe of claim 8, wherein the first end of the rate dependent tether is connected to a first side of the saddle and the second end of the rate dependent tether is connected to an opposing side of the saddle.
 11. The shoe of claim 10, wherein the first end of the rate dependent tether is at least one of an anchor and a hollow portion and the first side of the saddle is the other of an anchor and a hollow portion, and wherein the second end of the rate dependent tether is at least one of an anchor and a hollow portion and the opposing side of the saddle is the other of an anchor and a hollow portion.
 12. The shoe of claim 8, wherein the rate dependent tether is configured to be activated by exposing the rate dependent tether to a shear stress above a critical shear rate thereby increasing the deformation resistance exhibited by the rate dependent tether and securing the shoe to a foot of a user.
 13. A rate dependent insole for a shoe, comprising: an upper insole layer; a lower insole layer; and a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear located between the upper insole layer and the lower insole layer.
 14. The rate dependent insole of claim 13 wherein the upper insole layer is bonded to the lower insole layer and the material is located between the upper insole later and lower insole layer after bonding.
 15. The rate dependent insole of claim 13, wherein the rate dependent insole is constructed integrally with a shoe.
 16. The rate dependent insole of claim 13, further comprising at least one ribbon configured to activate the material.
 17. The rate dependent insole of claim 13, wherein the rate dependent insole is configured to be activated by exposing the rate dependent insole to a shear stress above a critical shear rate of the material thereby increasing the deformation resistance experienced by the rate dependent insole and supporting a foot within the shoe.
 18. A support for supporting a body part, comprising: a base material for constructing the support; a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear, wherein the base material is impregnated with the material.
 19. The support of claim 18, wherein the support is formed integrally with a shoe.
 20. The support of claim 18, wherein the support is formed as at least one of a sleeve or a bandage.
 21. The support of claim 18, wherein the support is configured to be activated by increasing the shear strain on the support thereby increasing the resistance experienced by the support and stabilizing the body part.
 22. A shoe, comprising: a rate dependent footcone comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the rate dependent footcone includes a material which increases in viscosity with rate of shear, wherein the first end includes one or more connections for connecting to a shoelace.
 23. The shoe of claim 22, wherein the rate dependent footcone further comprises a housing, the housing comprising: at least one ribbon, and a shear-thickening material.
 24. The shoe of claim 23, wherein the at least one ribbon is aligned with at least one of vertical axis of the footcone and a horizontal axis of the footcone.
 25. The shoe of claim 22, wherein the rate dependent footcone is configured to allow a user to insert a foot into the shoe, while the rate dependent footcone exhibits low deformation resistance and wherein the rate dependent footcone is configured to be activated by exposing the rate dependent footcone to a shear stress above a critical shear rate of the material thereby increasing the deformation resistance exhibited by the rate dependent footcone and securing the shoe to the foot of the user.
 26. The shoe of claim 22, wherein the rate dependent footcone is a sheet. 